The World of Courtesans c8.167

c8.167

Women of all categories flocked to the royal harem and Vatsyayana has laid down very elaborate rules regarding their relations with each other and their attitude towards their lord. Heroes are divided into two classes—*raja* or king and *janapada* or ordinary people. The harem administration (*antahpurikam*) dealt with all categories of women such as lawfully wedded wives, remarried widows, concubines, courtesans etc. In the daily routine of the palace the chamberlain or the head woman of the palace (*mahattarika*) presented to the king garlands, unguents and clothes sent to him by the queens. Accepting the gifts the king sent them in return presents of garlands which had adorned his body. In the afternoon decked in royal splendour he called on his wives who had assembled to meet him. He honoured them according to the occasion and their status and exchanged pleasantries with them.